09/02/2026
People usually guess based on the document, but it's actually about where it's going. If the destination country is a party to the Hague Convention, one certificate is enough. If it isn't you're in consular legalization: state certification -> US Department of State -> destination country's embassy.
Same document, but a completely different timeline and cost, decided entirely by the destination!
Worth noting: Vietnam's accession takes effect September 11. Documents used before that date still need the full legalization route.
Not sure which one yours takes?
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